70% of Lagos primary school girls excel in STEAM subjects, says Education Ministry

The Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mrs. Abisola Dokunmu-Adegbite, has revealed that the State recorded a 25 per cent increase in enrolment for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) subjects across participating schools, noting that Lagos students continue to excel nationally, securing top positions in the National Engineers and Scientists Competition organised by the Federal Ministry of Education.

Dokunmu-Adegbite who disclosed this at the second edition of the Innovate Eko STEAM Day, held recently at the Education Resource Centre, Ikeja, also revealed that in the 2024 High State Assessment, 70 per cent of tracked primary school girls scored 70 per cent or above in STEAM-related subjects.

“This is a testament to our success in dismantling barriers and engaging our young girls as future scientists and engineers,” she said.

She further noted that since 2021, Lagos State has supported the development of more than 100 student-led innovations, including green energy prototypes and AI-driven tools. About 30 per cent of these projects, she said, have advanced to the patenting stage with support from the Lagos State Research and Innovation Council.

“These achievements prove that our youth are prepared to address global issues—from climate change to digital development. Our efforts align with the Ministry’s shift toward inquiry-based, hands-on learning and the funding of student-led solutions to local challenges such as urban sustainability and digital inclusion,” she added.

Dokunmu-Adegbite credited the progress to the commitment of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, whose T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda places education and technology at the centre of sustainable development in Lagos.

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Alli-Balogun, underscored the importance of collaboration, accessibility, career guidance, and educator support in leveraging technology for societal development. He noted that the state’s strategic investment in STEAM education is equipping students with essential problem-solving skills.

He added that the government is committed not only to improving teaching and learning outcomes but also to developing confident and courageous students who can define their career paths early.

Earlier, the Senior Special Assistant on Basic and Secondary Education and Convener of the programme, Mr. Opeyemi Eniola, commended the state’s dedication to preparing students for the future. He noted that Innovate Eko STEAM Day provides students with a platform to showcase groundbreaking talents, inventions, research, and innovative ideas.